Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop
Table of contents
The Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge to Emerald Ridge Loop is a 19.0 km lightly trafficked trail in Mount Rainier National Park that offers a real sense of adventure due to its sometimes difficult-to-find trail and length. If you’re prepared to do a bit of routefinding, this loop offers a fantastic waterfall, an impressive bridge, and mountain views all to yourself.
Route Description for Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop
If you’re searching for a trail that feels more adventurous and exciting than some of the common picks in Mount Rainier National Park, the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop Trail is a perfect pick. Armed with GPS and the willingness to do some routefinding, you’ll be handsomely rewarded with gorgeous views and a trail that you just might have to yourself.
Begin by hiking 2.9 km on the Westside Road to the unmarked Tahoma Creek Trail. You can bike this section to save some time. From the trailhead, begin up the trail for 3.4 km, passing a small waterfall and joining the Wonderland Trail. Note that this trail is unmaintained and subject to washout, so the conditions can be variable.
Continue north through the forest, then through volcanic and subalpine landscapes as you ascend. Emerald Ridge comes into view, a wide, bright green and flowered alpine meadow. This is a gorgeous spot with a unique view of Mount Rainier.
Descend off the ridge on a loose rocky trail, taking care not to slip. You’ll dip back into the forest and then go west on the South Puyallup Trail, descending through the woods for 1.0 km to the Westside Road. Turn south of the road and descend to the Tahoma Creek Trail.
Getting to the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop Trailhead
To get to the trailhead for the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop from the Nisqually entrance, drive east on Nisqually Longmire Road for 1.6 km. Turn left onto West Side Road. Follow the road for 5.1 km and park at its end.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
South Puyallup River Camp
When to do:
June-August
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Poor
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Lollipop
Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop Elevation Graph
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